The Real Reason Why These Actors Left Grey's Anatomy

With all the turnover, have you ever wondered the real reason why these actors left Grey's Anatomy? It all started in 2005, centering around the polarizing character, Meredith Grey, a star who has stayed with the ABC network since the show’s inception. Grey’s Anatomy has been blasted for its notoriety for killing characters, leaving only four of the original actors, Alex Karev, Miranda Bailey, Richard Webber, and Meredith Grey to star in Grey's Anatomy Season 15. Though medical mayhem and doctor drama might seem to be the reason for the character turnover, some speculated behind-the-scenes scandal might also be at fault. Through its cast of OB/GYNs, surgeons, doctors, and nurses, Grey’s Anatomy makes for a pretty intricate plot line. It’s no wonder this medical drama has created some notorious fallouts for past cast members.
Isiah Washington couldn’t seem to avoid drama with co-star Patrick Dempsey. After rumors circulated of a homophobic slur used by Washington, the next season of Grey’s Anatomy would be seen without him. The fallout from that led to TR Knight leaving Grey's.
Even Brooke Smith, who played Dr. Erica Hahn was let go. While many speculated it was on behalf of her being part of the LGBT community, series creator Shonda Rhymes stated they simply couldn’t write for her character anymore. Even Katherine Heigl’s departure from the show was shocking to some, though Rimes would later reveal on Oprah that her resignation was far from surprising. Despite its low retention of actors, Grey’s Anatomy has been applauded for it’s ethnically diverse cast, something that sets the series apart from most others.
#GreysAnatomy #McDreamy #PatrickDempsey
Isaiah Washington | 0:17
Kate Walsh | 1:09
T.R. Knight | 2:03
Katherine Heigl | 2:45
Sandra Oh | 3:38
Patrick Dempsey | 4:18
Chyler Leigh | 5:04
Kim Raver | 5:38
Eric Dane | 6:19
Sara Ramirez | 6:54
Jason George | 7:34
Jessica Capshaw and Sarah Drew | 8:17